Which one of the following is the smallest unit showing the properties of life such as capacity for metabolism, response to the environment, growth and reproduction ?

The cell is recognized as the basic structural, functional, and biological unit of all living organisms. It is the smallest unit of life that independently exhibits all essential biological properties, including metabolism, growth, response to environmental stimuli, and reproduction. While components like the nucleus, chromosomes, and genes are vital for cellular function, they cannot sustain life independently. The nucleus acts as the control center, regulating growth and metabolism, and contains chromosomes which house genes—the instruction manuals for inheritance [1]. However, these organelles and molecules deteriorate if isolated, whereas whole cells can be cultured and perform all life processes autonomously. Thus, the cell is the fundamental unit of life [2].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554382/
2. [2] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 7: How do Organisms Reproduce? > 7.1 DO ORGANISMS CREATE EXACT COPIES OF THEMSEL THEMSELVES? > p. 113